How To: Throw The Ultimate Barbecue

Throw The Ultimate Summer Season Kickoff

setting up

Tables & chairs

You want to set up your patio or backyard so that it's most efficient in terms of capacity, and conducive for socializing. This said, you can do several things, depending on your accommodations:

1)Round table — Set up chairs around the table if your party is smaller, so that it encourages a social atmosphere.

2)Buffet — Set up all the food, condiments and drinks on one table outside, in an organized buffet manner (if it doesn't all fit properly, then you can put the drinks on a separate, smaller table). Then set up chairs in your backyard accordingly. If you don't have enough tables, not to worry, just use whatever tables you have, while the other guests can just use their laps or eat standing up.

3)Inside — Set up all the food on a table inside (if your dining room or kitchen is accessible to your patio or backyard), and arrange chairs outside. This is a great option if your patio or backyard is smaller, and it'll also keep the bugs away as much as possible. This is also the best option if there's a possibility of rain, so that you won't have to bring all the food inside when the downpour starts. On the topic of rain, make sure to have a backup plan in case it does start to rain on your parade.

decorating the place

Music — Background music is essential for barbecues, but try not to have loud rock music playing; you want to encourage chitchat amongst your guests and you don't want the neighbors to complain. Go for either Top 40 hits, electronic/dance, R&B, jazz, classic tunes, or bossa nova.

Lanterns — for extra lighting and ambiance.

Summer's all about warm weather, fun times, and enjoying the outdoors with your friends, so make the most of the short summer season and throw the barbecues that'll make you king of your neighborhood — don't worry, you don't have to wear a chef's hat.